Cajun Breakfast Casserole
A hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole featuring layers of bread, sausage, and cheese, all soaked in a savory egg mixture. Topped with crunchy cornflakes and baked to perfection, it's ideal for weekend brunches or family gatherings, offering a comforting blend of Cajun spices and classic breakfast favorites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter the bottom and sides of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 8 slices of bread on the bottom of the dish.
- Spread drained, browned ground sausage over the bread layer.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the sausage until covered.
- Top with the remaining 8 slices of bread.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and mix with salt, pepper, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, milk, hot sauce, and melted butter.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and sausage.
- Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- When ready to bake, melt the butter and pour it over the casserole.
- Sprinkle crushed cornflakes on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 60 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding diced bell peppers and onions to the sausage before browning. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half of the milk with a low-fat variety or use egg whites instead of whole eggs. To make it vegetarian, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cajun Breakfast Casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with Hot Dip Snacks for a complete brunch spread. For an extra kick, offer additional hot sauce on the side or a dollop of sour cream to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This casserole can also be frozen for up to a month.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 178 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for preparing ahead of time. After assembling the layers, cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when baked the next day.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicier kick, or even a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as sausage and Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the casserole without the gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).